How to Get Rid of Sewer Smell in My Home

Have you noticed a sewage smell in your home? Or perhaps your neighborhood? If so, this may indicate a serious plumbing issue that requires immediate attention. When your home starts to smell like sewage, it’s important to find the source and take swift action. 

The first step sounds simplistic, but it is certainly effective. 

1. Use your nose: Walk through your home and try to determine where the smell is strongest.
2. Check all drains: Pay close attention to sinks, showers, and floor drains, especially in less-used areas of your home.
3. Inspect toilets: Look for signs of leakage around the base and check if the smell intensifies when flushing.
4. Examine exterior areas: Walk around the outside of your home, paying attention to areas near your septic tank or sewer line connection.
5. Consider timing: Note if the smell is constant or if it occurs only at certain times, such as after rainfall or when using specific appliances.

Now that you know where it’s coming from, it would help for you to understand common causes to help you choose the right plumbing service. There are several potential culprits behind that unpleasant sewage odor. Since your home’s plumbing system is a complex network of pipes, vents, and fixtures designed to efficiently manage water flow and waste removal, when any component of this system fails, it can lead to sewer gas escaping into your living space. Some frequent plumbing issues include:

• Damaged or corroded pipes allowing sewer gas to seep through
• Improperly installed or damaged vent pipes failing to direct odors outside
• Loose or broken seals around toilets or other fixtures
• Clogged or partially obstructed drains causing water to stagnate

If it isn’t any of this, then it could be an issue with your main sewer line. This can cause widespread odor issues throughout your home. For homes with septic systems, this can be caused by full septic tanks, or damaged septic tank components.

 

DIY Solutions for Minor Sewer Smell Issues

Now that you have pinpointed the issue, there are some ways you can fix this yourself. Note though that this only applies to minor odor problems.

If you suspect a dry p-trap is the culprit, simply run water through the affected drain for several minutes. This should refill the trap and restore the water seal. For infrequently used drains, make it a habit to run water periodically to prevent future issues.

Regular drain cleaning can help prevent odor-causing buildup. Try these natural cleaning methods:

• Boiling water flush: Pour a pot of boiling water down the drain to help dissolve and flush away debris.
• Baking soda and vinegar: Pour 1/2 cup of baking soda down the drain, followed by 1/2 cup of white vinegar. Cover the drain and let it sit for 15 minutes before flushing with hot water.
• Enzyme cleaners: Use a natural enzyme-based drain cleaner to break down organic matter without harsh chemicals.

Remember, these tips are only applicable if they are minor issues. If you’re unsure about your ability to safely fix the problem, it’s best to call a professional.

 

When to Call a Professional Plumber

Consider calling a plumbing service like Krupp Whitney Plumbing if:

• The odor persists after attempting DIY solutions
• You suspect a problem with your main sewer line or septic system
• There are signs of sewage backup or water damage
• You notice multiple drains emitting odors or draining slowly
• The smell is accompanied by gurgling sounds from drains
• You lack the tools or expertise to safely diagnose the issue

Professional plumbers have the knowledge, experience, and specialized equipment to accurately diagnose and resolve complex sewer odor issues. They can perform thorough inspections, including camera surveys of your pipes, to identify hidden problems and recommend the most effective solutions.

Using specialized cameras inserted into your pipes, plumbers can visually inspect the interior of your plumbing system. This allows them to identify issues such as:

• Cracks or breaks in pipes
• Tree root intrusions
• Buildup of debris or scale
• Misaligned pipe joints

Professional plumbing services can also use smoke testing. Non-toxic smoke is introduced into the plumbing system, and when smoke escapes through any leaks or improper connections, you will be able to locate the source of odors. This is particularly useful for finding damaged or improperly installed vent pipes, cracks in sewer lines, or illegal plumbing connections.

Now that you’ve read all about what is causing the smell, take immediate action against it. Dealing with sewer smells in your home can be unpleasant and potentially hazardous. By understanding the common causes, knowing how to locate the source, and implementing both immediate and long-term solutions, you can maintain a fresh-smelling and healthy living environment.

Remember, while some minor issues can be resolved with DIY methods, many sewer odor problems require professional expertise. Don’t hesitate to contact a reputable plumbing service like Krupp Whitney Plumbing for thorough diagnostics and effective solutions. Their experienced technicians can quickly identify the root cause of sewer odors and implement lasting repairs, ensuring your home remains fresh and your plumbing system functions optimally.

By staying proactive with regular maintenance and addressing issues promptly, you can prevent most sewer odor problems before they start. Keep this article handy as a reference, and don’t let you can get rid of the sewer smell in your home. With the right knowledge and professional support, you can enjoy a clean, fresh-smelling home year-round.